As part of our ongoing Black Belt Interviews series, we sit down with Maxym Dmytrovych from CKMA Barrie Dojo, to reflect on his eight-year journey in Kyokushin Karate.
Discover how he has transformed from a beginner to a black belt, the significance of mental preparation, and the philosophy that fuels his passion for martial arts.
Introduction
My name is Maxym Dmytrovych and I am 15 years old. I have been doing Kyokushin Karate for almost eight years now, and I have participated in quite a few seminars, including the ones of Shihan Darren Stringer, Shihan Janine Davies and Shihan Alexey Gorokhov.
I participate in the role of Senpai, as an assistant instructor serving as an example and helper of the dojo and Shihan that has trained me throughout the years - Shihan Steve Fogarasi. I am well grateful for my experiences and insight that has been provided to me throughout the years, and strive to do the same for others as well.
Osu!
What initially drew you to Karate Kyokushin, and how has your perception of the art changed since you started?
Initially, the need for focus, self-defense and discipline, along with physical recreation is what originally drew me to Kyokushin Karate. It was the need of toughness that Kyokushin Karate brings that brought forth a progressive build in character - both on the inside and out. As I grew in the art, my perception of it changed, realizing it isn't about showcasing the greatest amount of raw power, but about being that example and vessel that helps others achieve their maximum potential and growth that ultimately leads to their own success.
Can you describe your most memorable moment on your journey to achieving your black belt?
Being involved in this art for almost eight years now, I can definitely say that there have been numerous moments that stuck with me like glue over the course of my journey. One moment that I particularly fond of is my testing session for black belt. The adrenaline and grit is definitely something that was highly present in that moment, especially from my parents on the side lines.
How has practicing Karate Kyokushin impacted your life outside the dojo?
While being dressed in a white uniform with a belt around the waist during training is a common practice for a karateka, the true effects of practicing such an art would not only be seen on the inside of the dojo, but outside it as well. By practicing Kyokushin Karate, benefits such as improved self-control, grit and perseverance allowed me to face daily challenges with a certain approach and attitude that would have taken me a long time to overcome otherwise.
What was the biggest challenge you faced in your training, and how did you overcome it?
The biggest challenge I faced in training was - and in some way still is - endurance training. In one way or another, it refines the trainee like a fire, burning away at every barrier/ Simply put, I just keep this principle in mind: one breath at a time - just remember to breathe. Likewise, a particular phrase I like to use during tough sparring sessions would be "Keep calm and mawashi geri jodan".
How do you balance your Karate Kyokushin training with other aspects of your life (work, family, other interests)?
By managing my time and knowing what plans I must get done for every day of the week, I manage to stay on course with my personal life, and outside life.
What advice would you give to someone just starting their Karate Kyokushin journey?
The advice I would give to a beginner would be to "Stick with it".
How has your training in Karate Kyokushin influenced your approach to other martial arts or combat sports, such as K-1 Kickboxing?
The ability to look for openings and improvements come mainly through the act of engaging in sparring and practice intensely and effectively during training. Some influences would be to contemplate my actions as an opportunity to improve and address others with courtesy.
Can you share a valuable lesson you've learned from your sensei that has stuck with you throughout your journey?
Valuable lessons broaden perspective, provide insight and help attain wisdom. One particular lesson that my Shihan taught that stuck with me throughout my journey is if you love something hard enough, you'll go great lengths for it - go great enough for it, it'll lead you far enough. While not directly stated, Shihan Steve Fogarasi has demonstrated and verbally shared his inspiring experiences that are based on the principle of doing things with a fiery passion. It spreads to others like a fire and produces the fruit of high quality work over the quantity of it.
What do you believe sets Karate Kyokushin apart from other martial arts disciplines?
Apart from being a full contact martial art, I believe it is mutual respect, trust, sportsmanship and tradition that is incorporated into the art that sets it apart from other martial arts disciplines. It encourages you to participate in a collaborative team effort in achieving a personal success that is celebrated on a unified level.
How do you maintain your motivation and continue to grow as a martial artist after achieving your black belt?
Becoming a black belt was the first part of the journey. The examples of other high level blackbelts prove to show that there is always room for improvement, and it never stops; it is a life-long process. By continuing my training , not only do I improve my own skills, but also motivate others to work with the team and take each other to different heights.
What role do you think mental preparation plays in Karate Kyokushin, and how do you cultivate mental strength?
The art of Kyokushin Karate requires a sound and calm mind; it eliminates external noise and helps concentrate on the present time and present doing. Like anything, if you want to keep it in shape or at top notch quality, you have to keep it in check. Some strategies I use to cultivate mental strength are the following:
-Breathe
-Focus on the present action.
-Picture yourself doing whatever you are doing (or will be doing) well.
How has your understanding of the philosophy behind Karate Kyokushin evolved as you've progressed in your training?
The journey through Kyokushin Karate is one of continuous growth and deeper understanding. Originally, I thought It was only about doing punches and kicks and having the ability to look tough. However, it's a path that not only shapes physical abilities but also fortifies mental and spiritual strength, leading practitioners to become well-rounded individuals.
Can you describe a moment when you applied your Karate Kyokushin training or philosophy to a real-life situation outside the dojo?
The initiative to test my own motives; to have a confident and grateful heart in everything I do and to always keep my posture straight.
What are your thoughts on the importance of competition in Karate Kyokushin?
I believe that the level of practice and preparation for a competition compared to a weekly class has its major differences. Things are set on an entirely different level, requiring more sweat and strength than usually needed. More time, dedication, energy, and personal will is required to build yourself up to that new standard, and I don't believe it is easy. However, what doesn't kill us makes us stronger. I definitely think it's worth a shot for anyone who is willing to put that up as a challenge.
How do you see Karate Kyokushin evolving in the future, and what role do you hope to play in its development?
I cannot say anything for certain, but I would like to see Kyokushin Karate being involved in school curriculums, and educational institutions. The art provides insight on ethics, morals and philosophy, being both a physical art and a mental and spiritual refiner. I have to include that our actions speak louder than words, hence why the example that we provide will be the best representation of who we are and what we do that inspires others and invites them to do the same. Being that light of the world that we are called to be (Matthew 5:14-16).
Osu!
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